Even at its base starting price of right around $40,000, the Lexus IS is a fun, stylish, well-equipped luxury sedan.
But the “go big or go home” crowd will be more interested to know Lexus offers about $16,000 worth of upgrades for the IS. Here are the boxes you have to check to achieve peak IS at about $56,000:
- Lexus IS F Sport with All-Wheel Drive: $45,975
- Navigation/Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package: $2,750
- F Sport Dynamic Handling Package: $3,800
- Premium Triple-Beam LED Headlamps: $1,250
- Power Tilt-And-Slide Moonroof: $1,100
- Intuitive Parking Assist With Auto Braking And Rear Cross-Traffic Braking: $565
And here’s a look at the best of that bonus content:
311-horsepower V6 Engine
The Lexus IS lineup features three engines, the most powerful of which is exclusive to the range-topping F Sport models. The 3.5-liter V6 generates 311 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque, and can launch the F Sport to 60 mph in a mere 5.6 seconds.
All-Wheel Drive
Because all is better than some, right? With all-wheel drive you get four tires working to drive the car forward instead of just two, which can be especially beneficial in heavy rain, snow, and other slick conditions. The system in the IS can further optimize traction by dynamically distributing the work between the front and rear wheels. Some enthusiast-types, however, will be happy to know the IS F Sport is also available with rear-wheel drive and a limited-slip differential.
Big Touchscreen with Navigation and Voice Control
Do you find your current phone, computer, and television screens just too big? No? Then you’ll likely prefer the 10.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen to the standard 8-inch version. Navigation and voice control are only nice to have, in large part because Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the line.
17-Speaker Premium Audio
The Lexus Mark Levinson sound system lineup has long been among our favorites. The version in the top-tier IS delivers an impressive 1,800 watts of power driven through 17 speakers.
Adaptive Variable Suspension
Do you prefer high-performance handling or a smooth highway ride? With adaptive variable suspension you can tighten up for the twisties, loosen up for the long hauls. Choices include ECO, Normal, Sport S, Sport S+, and Custom modes, impacting not just suspension tuning but also engine, transmission, and steering characteristics.
Bolder Styling
Whether you’re more interested in going faster or just looking faster, the IS F Sport has you covered. In addition to more power and improved handling, the F Sport boasts unique front and rear styling, bolder wheels, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. Triple-beam LED headlamps add to the look while also improving visibility.
More 2021 Lexus IS
Read our full review or build and price your own Lexus IS. If you’re ready to put the pedal down, take a look at the Lexus IS models for sale near you.
